Cleaning your home may seem daunting, but with the right tips and tricks, you can make your home sparkle quickly. Here are nine professional cleaning tips that will transform your home and simplify your cleaning routine:
Follow the Top-to-Bottom Rule
Start cleaning from the top of the room and work your way down. Cleaning professionals always follow this rule to make their cleaning process more efficient. By focusing on higher areas first, such as ceiling fans, high shelves, or light fixtures, you can effectively ensure that any dust stirred up does not settle on a lower, already cleaned section of the room. This rule is especially important in areas like the kitchen and bathroom, where small particles accumulate on countertops and floors.
Use a Microfiber Cloth
For dusting, use a microfiber cloth instead of a traditional duster. Microfiber cloths can attract and hold onto the dust, rather than just moving it around. Furthermore, they are reusable and durable, which makes them an eco-friendly option compared to paper towels. These cloths are also excellent for cleaning glass surfaces as they leave no lint or streaks behind. A quick wiping with a damp microfiber cloth can make your mirrors and windows shine. Remember to keep several on hand and use fresh clothes as needed.
Embrace Baking Soda and Vinegar
These two pantry staples are the stars of natural home cleaning. Baking soda is a deodorizer and a gentle scrub that can be used in the bathroom, kitchen, and more. For example, sprinkle baking soda on your bathroom tiles or kitchen sink, then scrub to remove stubborn stains and grime. Conversely, vinegar is a powerful disinfectant and is excellent for cleaning glass tiles and removing soap scum. A solution of equal parts vinegar and water can be an excellent DIY cleaning solution for many surfaces in your home.
Handle Stainless Steel with Care
Use a specific stainless steel cleaner to preserve the material’s finish for stainless steel appliances. It’s important to note that stainless steel can easily scratch, so you should avoid using abrasive cleaners or materials. To apply, spray the cleaner on a microfiber cloth and wipe it toward the grain. Wiping in the direction of the grain maintains the original polish and shine of your stainless steel appliances. Always give the surface a final pass with a dry cloth to prevent water spots.
Use a Cleaning Caddy
A portable cleaning caddy helps keep your cleaning supplies organized and easily accessible. This way, you can carry all your supplies from room to room without searching for the right cleaner or tool. Your caddy should include your go-to cleaning supplies, such as an all-purpose cleaner, glass cleaner, disinfectant wipes, scrub brushes, microfiber cloths, and gloves. Having a designated storage spot for your cleaning supplies will save time and keep your products in good condition.
Steam Clean Carpets
Professional cleaners recommend steam cleaning your carpets at least once a year. A steam cleaner uses hot water to penetrate deep into carpet fibers, loosening dirt and killing bacteria, dust mites, and allergens that vacuuming alone can’t reach. This deep cleaning process can help prolong the life of your carpet by removing deep-set stains and dirt. Steam cleaning can also improve indoor air quality by removing allergens and pollutants in the carpet fibers.
Remember the ‘Forgotten’ Areas
Some areas in the house are easy to overlook, such as baseboards, door frames, light switches, and ceiling fans. Pay special attention to these areas. A quick wipe-down can prevent dust accumulation and keep your home cleaner longer. For instance, dusting baseboards might not be part of your daily cleaning routine, but the entire room looks better when they’re clean. Similarly, routinely wiping down door handles and light switches can help prevent the spread of germs.
Maintain a Regular Cleaning Schedule
Keeping a regular cleaning schedule can ensure tasks are manageable. Split chores into daily, weekly, and monthly tasks. For example, make it a daily task to clean the kitchen, a weekly task to clean the bathrooms, and a monthly task to vacuum under furniture. A regular schedule will ensure all areas of your home get the attention they need without feeling overwhelmed. It also makes dividing tasks among family members easier and ensures everything gets done.
Use the Right Tools for the Job
Investing in high-quality cleaning tools can significantly improve your cleaning routine. A good vacuum cleaner, for instance, can tackle multiple surfaces and reach tight corners. An extendable duster can also help you reach high surfaces without straining yourself. Specialty tools like a grout brush or a window squeegee can also make specific jobs easier. While these tools may seem like a splurge initially, they can save you time and effort in the long run and lead to better cleaning results.
Incorporating these tips into your cleaning routine can help you maintain a cleaner, healthier, and more enjoyable living space. Remember, the key to a sparkling home is not just the occasional deep clean but regular maintenance. With these professional cleaning tips, you’re well on your way to a home that’s not just clean but truly sparkles.
